Political Rifts Deepen: NCP on the Brink in Mahayuti Coalition

Tensions in Maharashtra's Mahayuti coalition escalate as Shiv Sena minister Tanaji Sawant openly criticizes NCP's Ajit Pawar, remarking he feels nauseous sitting next to NCP ministers. With growing discontent within Shinde Sena and the BJP questioning their alliance with Ajit Pawar, NCP's future in Mahayuti is in jeopardy.

Tensions in Maharashtra's political landscape surged on Friday when Shiv Sena minister Tanaji Sawant criticized NCP ministers, stating he felt like vomiting after sitting next to them. The remark has prompted the Nationalist Congress Party (SP) to call for the BJP to expel Ajit Pawar's faction from the Mahayuti coalition.

BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and NCP form the current ruling coalition in Maharashtra. NCP (SP) spokesperson Clyde Crasto emphasized Sawant's comment as evidence that the Mahayuti no longer values the NCP. Crasto noted the RSS' mouthpiece had already questioned the BJP's alliance with Ajit Pawar, a sentiment echoed by BJP cadres.

Meanwhile, NCP's Mahesh Tapase claimed Ajit Pawar's self-respect is waning, highlighting growing dissatisfaction within Shinde Sena over the alliance. Tanaji Sawant's statements have magnified internal fissures, painting a dire picture for NCP's prospects in upcoming elections. Ajit Pawar's faction currently holds the party name and clock symbol after the NCP split in July 2023.

(With inputs from agencies.)